'No Knock' List Would Keep Away Solicitors
ROYAL OAK (WWJ) - After the murder of an 80-year-old woman in her home last fall, the City of Royal Oak is looking into possibly adopting a so-called community "no knock" list in an attempt to tighten the limits on door-to-door solicitors.
WWJ Newsradio 950 spoke with Royal Oak City Attorney Dave Gillam.
"A homeowner would have the ability to have their name and address put on that list. And, essentially, that would make it illegal or unlawful for a solicitor to approach someone at that address for commercial purposes," Gilliam said.
Nancy Dailey was murdered in her house on November 20, allegedly by two parolees who authorities said did lawn work for her prior to the murder.
Gillam said a tougher ordinance could do some good, but it might not have made a difference in Dailey's death.
"If people wanna do bad things, they're gonna find a way to do bad things anyway. Having a no knock list isn't a complete safeguard for anyone," he said. "It may be another tool in the toolbox, but it really isn't the answer. And people always need to be careful and always need to be attentive."
Molly, who lives in downtown Royal Oak, said it's "ridiculous" how many people coming knocking at her door - either soliciting, passing out fliers or just trying to get her to sign something.
She said that on a Saturday, depending on the weather, it's not unusual to have two or three people come knocking. "It can be scary," she said. Molly said she and many of her neighbors would sign up for a "no knock" list.
Gillam said his office should have a formal "no knock" plan before City Council for its consideration by the end of April.
Would you put your name on a "no knock" list? Comment below.
